The Spring 2023 edition of the State of the Everglades Report is now available. Published by Audubon Florida each spring and fall, the report details the organization's activity in the River of Grass, including key policy updates, data from researchers at the Everglades Science Center in Tavernier, and more.

Top stories in this issue include a look back on January's visit from U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, findings from Audubon researchers at the Everglades Coalition conference, and updates on state policy and budget decisions impacting the Everglades conservation and restoration.

The report also includes the State of the Slough, a comprehensive look at the health of Taylor Slough and Florida Bay, located at the southern end of Everglades National Park. Audubon researchers track everything from fish species and aquatic vegetation to water levels and salinity throughout the year. This year's data shows that June 2022 had record-high water levels, which were exacerbated by Hurricane Ian's rain and storm surges. The water level rose to nearly twice the optimum depth for Roseate Spoonbills to feed their young. Although the water level did decrease for a short period in February, researchers say it was likely not long enough for nesting spoonbills to successfully fledge chicks.

The full report can be found on the Audubon Florida website.